Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a dream come true for seafood and pasta lovers! Imagine the creamy richness of a classic lasagna layered with tender shrimp, garlicky butter, and a touch of lemon — all melting beautifully with ricotta and mozzarella. Each bite captures the essence of shrimp scampi, but in a comforting, bubbling baked casserole. This recipe brings a little bit of luxury to your weeknight table or any special gathering, blending sophistication with pure, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna comes from a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each one — from buttery shrimp to creamy cheeses — plays a starring role, creating luscious layers and stunning flavor.
- Lasagna noodles (12, cooked and drained): These form the comforting base and hold all the deliciousness together.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Look for fresh or thawed shrimp, as their tenderness is what sets this lasagna apart.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Butter brings that classic scampi richness you can taste in every layer.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The heart and soul of the scampi flavor — don’t hold back!
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A splash for sautéing helps the butter not brown too quickly and deepens the flavor.
- Dry white wine (1/4 cup) or chicken broth: Wine brightens and deglazes the pan for a lovely sauce, or use broth for an alcohol-free version.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): This adds decadence and melds everything into a luxuriously silky sauce.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Its creaminess balances the robust flavors and keeps the lasagna soft.
- Shredded mozzarella (1 cup): For those crave-worthy, gooey cheese pulls!
- Grated Parmesan (1/2 cup): Brings a nutty, salty layer of flavor that’s absolutely essential.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Provides just enough brightness to cut through the creamy layers.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds a burst of color and freshness to the final dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: These bring out every nuance of flavor — don’t be shy!
- Optional: red pepper flakes: For a little heat that tingles rather than scorches — totally up to your spice tolerance.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Step 1: Prep and Gather Ingredients
Begin by having all your ingredients ready and your lasagna noodles cooked to just al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a kitchen towel so they don’t stick. This prep sets you up for smooth sailing when the layering starts, so you can focus on flavor and not on scrambling!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle just until fragrant, about a minute — this is where the scampi aroma is born! Next, stir in the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they’re pink and tender. Remove the shrimp and set them aside for now, resisting the urge to snack on them (or not, I won’t judge).
Step 3: Build the Scampi Sauce
Add the wine or chicken broth to the same skillet, scraping up all the beautiful browned bits left behind. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream and fresh lemon juice. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick, tasting as you go.
Step 4: Mix Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, blend the ricotta with half of the chopped parsley and a pinch of salt. This creamy, herby mixture is the secret to dreamy lasagna layers that keep everything moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Layer and Assemble Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Start with a little sauce spread on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer 3 noodles, then spread a third of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by a third of the shrimp, another drizzle of scampi sauce, and sprinkles of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the last noodles, all remaining sauce, and the rest of your cheeses on top. This is where it starts to look irresistible!
Step 6: Bake to Bubbling Perfection
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in your preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld. Uncover and continue baking another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let your kitchen fill with tempting aromas!
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking — this helps it set, so you get beautiful slices. Garnish generously with the remaining fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Garnishes
A shower of fresh parsley just before serving brings brightness and color. You can also add an extra zest of lemon or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of flavor and color right at the table.
Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna shines with simple accompaniments. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps things fresh, and crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of luscious sauce. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli add perfect greens for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this lasagna in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party. You can also cut the lasagna into smaller squares for a unique appetizer at gatherings, or layer it in clear glass dishes to show off those pretty layers — you’ll get loads of “oohs” and “aahs.”
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen even more, and it will reheat beautifully for lunch or a quick dinner.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes very well. Cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the entire casserole tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Store for up to two months; just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave until steaming hot, or cover leftovers with foil and warm in a 350°F oven. Add a splash of cream or broth if you want to keep the layers extra moist. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley for fresh-from-the-oven flavor!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?
Absolutely, just make sure your shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture and ensures they cook evenly and soak up all that garlicky goodness.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great stand-in that still gives depth to your sauce without altering the flavor too much.
Can I make this dish ahead for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the entire Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What other seafood works well in this lasagna?
This recipe is flexible! Scallops, a seafood blend, or even chunks of cooked lobster or crab would add variety and keep the luxurious spirit of this dish alive.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
For a lighter take, swap in half-and-half for the cream and add sautéed spinach or thin-sliced zucchini between the layers. You’ll save on richness but keep all the flavor!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a show-stopping, cozy bake, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna delivers in every creamy, cheesy, shrimp-filled bite. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested dish at your table. Gather your loved ones — and get ready to make some delicious memories!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of a creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna that combines succulent shrimp, rich cheeses, and aromatic garlic butter sauce, all layered between tender lasagna noodles.
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter with olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp, cook for 2–3 minutes until pink. Remove shrimp.
- Make Sauce: Add wine, simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in cream, lemon juice, cook for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine ricotta, half of parsley, and salt.
- Assemble: Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, shrimp, sauce, cheeses. Repeat layers. Cover and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for 10 more minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the shrimp with scallops or a seafood blend.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add sautéed spinach or zucchini between layers for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
